Memorial Day Tribute at Crown Point
Molly Sommer, a second-generation bagpiper residing near the Historic Maplewood Cemetery, performed ‘Amazing Grace’ on her bagpipes as she moved among the gravestones. Her tribute to those who lost their lives followed the conclusion of Crown Point’s Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony held on Monday, May 25, 2026.
Sommer noted the absence of her military-serving grandfathers from Crown Point Cemetery and shared that playing her bagpipes there is an annual tradition for her. ‘I love to do it to pay my respect,’ Sommer expressed.
The Memorial Day event earlier featured chairs set up for attendees, most of whom departed by the time Sommer played her tribute. Parade-goers had held umbrellas against the sun, seeking shade under trees. The parade commenced at Joliet Street and ended at the cemetery.
Post 20 Commander Kevin Dvorak delivered greetings during the tribute, accompanied by an invocation and closing prayer from Perry McLemore of Southlake Christian Church. A wreath-laying ceremony honored Dana and Dawn Stewart of Crown Point as a Gold Star Family. Their son, USMC Cpl. Ian Wesley, lost his life serving in 2004. Dawn Stewart shared the lingering sorrow of their son’s passing, stating, ‘Twenty-two years later, it’s still hard.’
Speakers included Crown Point Mayor Pete Land and U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, D-Highland. The keynote speaker, Stephany Leonard, recounted the loss of her husband, Jesse Meredith, to suicide following his military service. Leonard, from Valparaiso and a veteran herself, discussed her journey as a widow and mother while advocating for openness regarding struggles experienced by veterans and their families.
Leonard emphasized the importance of seeking support, admitting her initial silence following her husband’s death. Meredith had served in the U.S. Army National Guard and battled PTSD before his suicide. Leonard expressed her desire to ensure other military families facing similar struggles feel encouraged to seek help and support.
‘Today, as we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice,’ Leonard stated, ‘I hope we also remember the human side of service—the families behind the uniforms, the struggles that sometimes continue after war, and the lives still quietly fighting battles every single day. Lead with kindness. Be patient with people.’
Deborah Laverty provided coverage of the event, working as a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.